What You Need to Know Before Watching the Justice League 2017

Embarking on a journey through the uncharted realms of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), the 2017 Justice League film is a landmark in superhero cinema. However, before embarking on this cinematic expedition, there are several key points to keep in mind to enhance your viewing experience and understanding. This guide will delve into the background, characters, plot, and other essential information that will help you appreciate the film and its place within the larger DCEU narrative.

Background on the DCEU: A Kaleidoscope of Heroes

The Justice League (2017) is a pivotal film in the DCEU, a collection of DC Comics adaptations that includes other beloved movies such as Man of Steel (2013), Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), and Wonder Woman (2017). Familiarizing yourself with these films will greatly enhance your comprehension of the characters and their motivations, setting the stage for an even more enriching experience with the Justice League.

Key Characters to Know

The film introduces a captivating ensemble of heroes, each with their unique strengths and backstories:

Batman Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck): A wealthy vigilante who uses his resources to fight crime. His strategic and analytical approach often provides the backbone of the team's operations. Wonder Woman Diana Prince (Gal Gadot): An Amazonian warrior with superhuman abilities, who embodies courage and strength. Her presence adds a balance of heroism and warrior spirit to the group. Aquaman Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa): The ruler of Atlantis and a powerful underwater hero. His aquatic powers and leadership skills are crucial in defending the oceans. The Flash Barry Allen (Ezra Miller): A speedster superhero with super-speed abilities that can be both a blessing and a curse. His youth and impulsive nature can sometimes lead him astray but also injects energy into the team. Cyborg Victor Stone (Ray Fisher): A half-human, half-machine hero with advanced technology. His inclusion highlights the technological advancements in the DCEU and his role in bridging the worlds of traditional and modern firepower. Superman Clark Kent (Henry Cavill): A powerful alien hero who represents hope and justice. His unparalleled strength and moral integrity are vital to the team's success.

A Preview into the Plot: Heroes Against a Common Enemy

The film's plot revolves around Batman and Wonder Woman assembling a team of heroes to face the powerful threat of Steppenwolf and his army, who seek to conquer Earth using three powerful Mother Boxes. These Mother Boxes provide immense power to whoever controls them, making the mission to retrieve and protect them absolutely crucial. The film's action-packed sequence is balanced with moments of camaraderie and shared peril, creating a dynamic viewing experience.

Exploring the Tone and Style: A Blending of Humor and Daring

The Justice League film maintains a blend of action, humor, and camaraderie typical of superhero movies. However, it also carries darker themes consistent with the DCEU, reflecting more mature and complex storylines. The tone is generally lighter compared to its predecessor Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, which adds a refreshing change and a more approachable narrative.

Where Are We Going, Post-Credits?

The film concludes with a series of post-credits scenes, a tradition in superhero movies that offers a peek into future developments in the DCEU. These scenes are crucial for setting up future narratives and can significantly influence your overall enjoyment of the series.

Snyders Legacy and Whedon's Vision

The initial version of Justice League was directed by Zack Snyder, who stepped down from the project before completion. Director Joss Whedon took over for reshoots and post-production, resulting in a mix of styles and tones that may affect your viewing experience. Understanding this transition can provide a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the film and its place in the DCEU.

Variety in Reception: A Mixed Bag

Like any major cinematic release, Justice League has received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences. Embracing a critical and open-minded approach to the film's story and execution can enhance your viewing experience and provide a balanced perspective on its place in the DC Extended Universe.

Armed with this knowledge, you are now better equipped to embark on watching the 2017 Justice League. Enjoy the journey and embrace the excitement of the DCEU!